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Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: March 02, 2015 13:06 EST1. RECENT UPDATESThis travel advice was thoroughly reviewed and updated.2. ADVISORIESBARBADOS - Exercise normal security precautionsThere is no nationwide advisory in effect for Barbados. Exercise normal security precautions.3. SECURITYThe decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The purpose of this Travel Advice is to provide up-to-date information to enable you to make well-informed decisions.CrimePetty crime is common and incidents of violent crime occur. Crimes against tourists, as well as incidents involving firearms, have been reported. Foreigners have also been the target of rape. Avoid unattended or isolated areas, including beaches, at any time. Be particularly vigilant when visiting Long Beach, where assaults and robberies have been reported.Arrange secure living accommodations and do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Leave personal belongings and travel documents in a safety deposit box or secure hotel safe.Road travelTraffic drives on the left. Roads are narrow and poorly lit. Road signs are scarce. There are many pedestrians and cyclists, and few sidewalks. Roadside assistance is not widely available. Locating a phone booth in rural areas may be difficult. Seatbelt laws are strictly enforced.Public transportationBuses and vans are often crowded and travel at high speed. Although standard fares exist for some destinations, taxis are not metered. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing.See Transportation Safety in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.Emergency servicesIn case of an emergency, dial 211 for the police, and 511 for an ambulance. Police and ambulance response can be slow.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSIt is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry requirements. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Barbadian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to check with the High Commission for Barbados or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.PassportCanadians must present a valid passport to visit Barbados. Before you leave Canada, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.VisasTourist visa: Not required for stays of less than 90 daysBusiness visa: Not requiredStudent visa: RequiredYou must present an onward or return ticket and complete details of your intended address for immigration officials upon arrival to Barbados.Departure taxA departure tax is charged for travellers aged two years and up. It is usually included in the airline ticket.Children and travelChildren need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.Yellow feverSee Health to obtain information on this country's vaccination requirements.5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesMedical facilities are adequate. Some clinics and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for medical services.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.LawsIt is an offence for civilians to dress in camouflage clothing or to carry items made of camouflage material.The penalties for all drug offences are severe.If you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in Barbados, seek legal advice from professionals in Canada and in Barbados before making any commitment. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.You need a local driving permit to drive in Barbados, which you can obtain for BB$10 at any car rental agency or Barbados Licensing Authority office upon presentation of a valid Canadian driver's licence or International Driving Permit.MoneyThe currency is the Barbadian dollar (BBD). The U.S. dollar is also widely accepted. Three Canadian banks operate on the island, with several branches. The Royal Bank of Canada normally accepts Canadian bank cards for direct transactions with other banks in Canada.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEHurricane SeasonThe hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.Barbados is located in an active seismic zone.